Your goal on an interview is to persuade the employer that you have skills, background and ability to do the job, and that you can comfortably fit into they organization

Chinese Job Interview Tips

Job search in China requires more than just the obvious Chinese resume writing and translation - it requires careful preparation. You must pass the Chinese job interview. You will face issues that probably did not even cross your mind when you start planning to go for jobs in China.

Do not misjudge the impact they can have on the result of your adventure! For example, you will experience the different immigration rules and practices, job application procedures, the selection trends and the management culture.

Most visits to China are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Chinese take punctuality very seriously. Meetings always begin on time, so arrive at least 10 minutes before a job interview and turn off your cellphone.

Prepare yourself for the Chinese job interview - before an interview find out information about the company you want to work for, research the prospective host country's cultural and business practices so you can make a good first impression. Practice your few-sentence "speech" about who you are and what you do. Do not whine. Do not talk about being jobless. Do not dump on your former employer. Be positive.

Remember, the same keywords you used in your job resume will be the foundation for your job interviews. Not only do you need to be able to write about your key words, but also during an interview, you must be able to verbally communicate about them as well, in strong and powerful statements that highlight your successes, contributions and achievements.

Business cards and photocopies of academic certificates at job interviews are customary. Business cards should be printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other. Make sure the Chinese side uses "simplified" characters and not "classical" characters.

A reference letter from your academic supervisor or employer can be helpful during the job interview. An extra resume can be handy too. You will never get a second chance to make a first impression! So, smiling lightly show your friendly face.

It is considered important to demonstrate at the job interview good etiquette. Observing seniority and rank are highly respected. When introduced, expect a handshake and a bow. Do not touch, hug, lock arms, back slap or make any body contact. Address the Chinese by appropriate professional title or Mr., Mrs., Miss plus family name. Exchange business cards. Do not sit until invited.

Unless the job you seek requires that you only speak English, be prepared to discuss in Chinese what you have written in your resume during your job interview. Talk effectively demonstrating your knowledge of the industry and/or the company, do not interrupt the interviewer and criticize former employers.

Prepare for all kinds of questions about yourself, your qualifications, skills, experience and hobbies. Answer them as fully as you can, avoiding yes and no answers. You do not have to answer personal questions, but consider in advance how you are going to tackle them. If you feel uncomfortable with a question asked, simply smile and say, "In my country, that would be a strange question."

At the Chinese job interview do not volunteer information that the interviewer does not ask for

The Chinese job interviewers often ask about your past successes and mistakes on the job. It is a good idea to prepare a few career success stories and couple that had less than favorable outcomes but were learning experiences.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), marital status, gender and age discrimination laws are not nearly as stringent in China as they are elsewhere in the world. It is not unlawful nor is it uncommon for potential employers in China to ask for a specific gender, age, and even a 2x2-passport photo of you.

For the most part, multinational corporations operating in the region adopts the same type of hiring practices. Thus, do not be offended if you are asked such questions when applying for a job. Consider in advance how you are going to tackle them. Offer the information if it is to your advantage.

During the Chinese job interview be modest and respectful, keep your eyes lowered, maintain good posture, speak with calm voice, respect the moments of silence, never speak in an aggressive way, avoid displays of affection and maintain distance when communicating. Show your interest and talk about Chinese culture with enthusiasm.

When listening to a Chinese talking in English, it is very important to nod showing that you are listen and understand the speaker.

Ask questions about the job, the lines of authority and your future responsibilities, but avoid raising the issue of salary or benefits early in the process. Do not forget to ask, "When can I expect to hear from you?" (if that has not been discussed).

At the conclusion of your Chinese job interview, thank everyone present for interview and shake they hands.

After the interview, do not forget to write a thank you letter and subsequently follow-up by letter, email or phone call. Employers regard this as an indication of your strong/final interest in the position.